How This Music School Owner Cracked the Code to Rapid Growth—By Doing What Most Schools Overlook

In a world where music education often overlooks the needs of neurodivergent students, Shana Pistilli stands out as a leader in the field. As the owner and founder of Rubato School of Music, located in Media, Pennsylvania, Shana has dedicated her career to making music accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. 

Shana Pistilli's commitment to inclusive music education was recently recognized on an international level when Rubato School of Music was named the Music School of the Year in the 0-100 student category. This prestigious honour, sponsored by Practice Space, One Music Schools, Opus1.io, and Build a Music School, shows the global impact of Shana's innovative and inclusive approach to teaching music.

Winning this international competition not only celebrates Rubato's achievements but also earned Shana a well-deserved trip to BAMCON, the Build a Music School Conference in Cancun, Mexico, where she will have the opportunity to connect with and inspire music educators from around the world.

Shana's journey into music education began at West Chester University, where she earned her Bachelor's in Music Education with a minor in Special Education. Her passion for teaching was pushed further at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, where she obtained a Master's in Music Education with a focus on autism.

This path was deeply personal for Shana, as she has a brother with autism and identifies as neurodivergent herself, living with ADHD and anxiety. Her experiences growing up highlighted a significant gap in access to extracurricular activities for neurodivergent individuals, which fueled her passion for creating an inclusive music school.

While Shana’s parents easily found opportunities for her in soccer, basketball, and music lessons, her brother faced significant barriers. This disparity in access to extracurricular activities for neurodivergent individuals became the spark behind her mission to create a space where everyone could excel in music. 

At Rubato, Shana has implemented a philosophy of acceptance and accommodation. The school welcomes students of all backgrounds and abilities, tailoring each student's learning experience to their unique needs and goals. This commitment to inclusivity is evident in their performances, which feature both solo and group acts that bring together students on the autism spectrum, those with Down syndrome, and neurotypical students. The result is a vibrant community where everyone can thrive and share their love for music.

One of the innovative teaching methods Shana has developed is a color notation system for piano students. This system uses colors to represent different notes, making it easier for students, especially those with autism, to understand and engage with music. By incorporating visual aids, Shana has helped many students find their voice and express themselves through music, regardless of their starting point.

For instance, when teaching a non-speaking student, Shana utilized this color notation system to help the child play "Mary Had a Little Lamb." The mother, who overheard the lesson, was moved to tears as she realized her child had a talent and love for music that had previously gone unrecognized. This moment shows the transformative power of Shana's approach to music education.

Collaboration is another core part of Rubato's approach. The school hosts events like "Share the Stage," a fundraising concert that features professional musicians from the Philadelphia area alongside Rubato students. This event not only raises funds for the Autism Science Foundation but also provides students with the invaluable experience of performing with seasoned artists. The success of this initiative is a testament to the supportive community Shana has fostered at Rubato.

During these performances, students are given the opportunity to showcase their talents in a supportive environment. Shana emphasizes that the focus is not solely on the performance itself but on the collaborative process leading up to it. Students rehearse together, learn from one another, and build friendships that extend beyond the stage. Parents and families come together to celebrate their children's achievements, creating an atmosphere of joy and acceptance.

Shana's dedication to her students goes beyond the classroom. She actively markets performances to special needs groups, ensuring that families know they are welcome in a sensory-friendly environment. This outreach is crucial for families who may feel isolated or unsure about participating in community events. By creating a space where everyone feels accepted, Shana is breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging.

The performances at Rubato are designed to be inclusive and accessible. Families can attend without fear of judgment, knowing that their children will be welcomed and celebrated. Shana's commitment to creating a sensory-friendly environment allows families to enjoy music together, regardless of their individual needs.

As Rubato continues to grow, Shana is excited about the future. The school has seen a significant increase in enrollment and revenue, prompting plans for a larger location to accommodate more students and expand programming. With a vision for summer camps, group classes, and additional offerings, Shana is determined to provide even more opportunities for families in the community.

In the past year, Rubato has experienced remarkable growth, with an increase of approximately 10 new students and the hiring of a second teacher. Shana is actively seeking a larger space to accommodate the growing demand for her innovative teaching methods. She envisions a future where Rubato can offer a wider range of programs, including group rock band classes and family-oriented music experiences.

In her application for the Music School of the Year competition, Shana emphasized that Rubato deserves this recognition not just for its innovative teaching practices but for the profound impact it has on students and their families. The joy and pride she witnesses in her students, especially those who achieve milestones they once thought impossible, are what drive her passion.

Shana's vision for Rubato is not just about teaching music; it's about creating a community where every individual feels valued and empowered. The look on a parent's face when their child performs on stage for the first time, or the joy of a student who finally finds their voice, are the moments that make her work meaningful.

Shana Pistilli and Rubato School of Music show the power of inclusion and innovation in music education. Through her unwavering commitment to accessibility and support, Shana is not only changing lives but also redefining what it means to be a music school in today's world. As she prepares for her trip to the Build a Music School Conference the future looks bright for both Shana and the students of Rubato. With her passion, creativity, and dedication, Shana is paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive music education landscape, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to shine.

Want To Build a Music School Like Shana?

If Shana Pistilli’s story has inspired you, why not take the next step and check out Build a Music School (BAM) It’s the world’s #1 community for music teaching business owners and educators, designed to help you grow your studio, attract more students, and create the life you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you’re just starting out or running a thriving school, BAM has something for everyone—free resources like 25 Marketing Ideas to Attract New Students and 52 Music Studio Money Hacks, plus access to the #BAMSQUAD, a global community of over 1,000 studio owners from 25+ countries. You can even attend the next Build a Music School Conference (BAMCON) to learn directly from the best in the business. If you’re ready to take your music school to the next level, BAM is here to help you every step of the way!